Get to Know the Eye Guys

Meet our team of doctors, and read their entire biography.

Neil T. Shmunes, M.D.

Surgeon & Ophthalmologist

Dr. Neil Shmunes, a Jacksonville native, attended the University of Georgia where he received his Bachelor of Science degree and was inducted into Psi Chi Honor Society. Dr. Shmunes graduated Summa Cum Laude from the Medical College of Georgia in 1981. There he was inducted into the AΩA Medical Honor Society.

Dr. Charles V. Duss, a Jacksonville native, received his Bachelor of Science degree, graduating Magna Cum Laude, from the University of Notre Dame in 1999. He later attended the University of South Florida College of Medicine where he joined the AΩA Medical Honor Society.

Dr. Karim J. Samara, a Jacksonville native, graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Boston University in 1998. Dr. Samara is one of only a few physicians in the United States who is Board Certified in both Ophthalmology and Internal Medicine.

Dr. Michelle Diaz joined Atlantic Eye Institute in January 2016. She is a fellowship trained refractive surgeon specializing in cataract and LASIK surgery. Dr. Diaz graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of South Florida.

Dr. Sushma Vance joined Atlantic Eye Institute in January 2017 and is a board certified, fellowship trained retina specialist. Dr. Vance graduated with distinction from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology.

Dr. C. Steven Lancaster, born in Chicago, Illinois, received his Bachelor of Science degree from Florida State University in 1976 and his Bachelor of Visual Science and Doctorate degrees from the Illinois College of Optometry, graduating with honors in 1980.

Dr. Danielle T. Callegari received her Bachelor of Biological Sciences degree from Mississippi State University and her Bachelor of Vision Science and Doctorate degrees from NOVA Southeastern University College of Optometry in Ft Lauderdale, Fl.

Dr. Felver graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science from Florida State University in Tallahassee, FL. He went on to earn a Doctor of Optometry degree from Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

What Our Patients are Saying

Providing exceptional and individualized service for our patients.

Over the past 10 years, I have worked with over 30 Lasik surgeons in Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee… no one has better skills than The Eye Guys at Atlantic Eye Institute. It is a pleasure to be affiliated with this fine practice.

Dr. Brian DenBeste, Founder LaserVue

LASIK surgery made my vision better than any corrective lenses could ever do. The depth perception I gained from this surgery was such a shock; for the first time, I could see in 3-D! I don’t have a problem seeing without any type of corrective lenses now, and I can see all of the plants in my house in vivid detail. What a great gift!

Terry, LASIK Laser Vision Correction

For years I wanted to have LASIK surgery but never got the information I needed to pursue the surgery. I am thrilled with the results and only wish I had taken the time to get this information earlier! I couldn’t be happier, and I would highly recommend LASIK at Atlantic Eye Institute to anyone. It is the best investment in myself that I have ever made. I feel and look younger and no longer have to deal with wearing glasses!

Sharon, LASIK Laser Vision Correction

I really thought I’d scheduled my LASIK just to get rid of those awful glasses, but I’m stunned at the positive changes I’ve seen in the quality of my life! I would recommend Atlantic Eye Institute in Jacksonville to everyone considering LASIK surgery.

Kim, LASIK Laser Vision Correction

Having had amblyopia and been virtually blind in 1 eye, lifelong, it was amazing to have 20/25 vision with only a small amount of astigmatism after Dr. Shmunes performed Lasik surgery. I would highly recommend this procedure to anyone who experiences amblyopia or severe astigmatism or just wishes to see better without glasses.

Terry, LASIK Laser Vision Correction

To all considering LASIK – Just do it! I’ve worn glasses and contacts all my life and recently had LASIK at Atlantic Eye Institute. I now see 20/15 in both eyes after only one day! Thanks Atlantic Eye Institute for taking such great care of my eyes and adding to my quality of life. I now can go to the beach or pool with my one-year-old boy, Hudson, and not worry about those glasses and clip-on shades.

Joan, LASIK Laser Vision Correction

The whole experience was wonderful. The doctors and staff worked as a team, from the very first consultation to the actual surgery. They were very thorough in every process and answered all my questions and concerns. I am ecstatic about the new found freedom of seeing 20/20, 20/15 without the aid of eyeglasses or contacts. It’s the best investment I’ve ever made. It’s a dream come true!

Genna, LASIK Laser Vision Correction

I’m one day out of my Lasik surgery and I can’t say enough good things, not just about the surgery but also the level of care I have received. For anyone considering Lasik, I not only highly recommend the procedure but also Atlantic Eye Institute. Top-notch! Thank you a million for giving me the gift of sight, and for making me feel comfortable through every step of the process.

Jessica, LASIK Laser Vision Correction

Had a scare with a possible retinal problem this morning. Kudos to the answering service, the on-call physician who called me back, and the staff at the beaches office for getting me right in. The answering service even followed up to make sure I had been contacted. All is well — thank you for the excellent service (and peace of mind)!

Mary, Ocular Emergency

Just completed my last exam after laser cataract removal and lens implant in both eyes. I highly recommend the entire Atlantic Eye Institute group for your eye care. A special thanks to Dr. Duss and his surgery team. They were the best in giving me back my perfect vision… professional, caring, instructive, and friendly. I will soon be 68 years old, but now I have the eyes I had back in my 20s! If you are suffering from cataracts, give these guys a call; you’ll be glad you did.

John, Laser Cataract Surgery

An awesome experience! Dr. Diaz and the staff of Atlantic Eye Institute were beyond my expectations. They were knowledgeable, honest, and caring. All my eye measurements were triple checked before the surgery, so I felt confident in the process. All the options were discussed and possible limitations were thoroughly explained. I ended up with LASIK for my vision correction and I couldn’t be happier. The procedure was quick and relatively painless and my vision is incredible. It has been a life changing event. I’m beyond ecstatic with the results and the process. There aren’t words to express the amount of gratitude I have for Atlantic Eye Institute.

Angela, LASIK Laser Vision Correction

From my first appointment until going in for PRK, Dr.Shmunes and the staff were nice, easy to understand and helpful. They made the process less intimidating and made me feel important as a patient. Everything was efficient and professional.

Rusty, LASIK Laser Vision Correction

CARE CREDIT

CONTACT LENSES

At Atlantic Eye Institute we are dedicated to providing the highest quality care in fitting patients for contact lenses. Our staff is motivated to find a solution for you to enjoy the freedom of seeing clearly without glasses.

PATIENT PORTAL

ALLEGRETTO WAVE®

The doctors at Atlantic Eye Institute use the latest, state-of-the-art excimer laser technology which means safer and faster vision correction with superior results. It is far more gentle on patients’ eyes and speeds healing time after surgery.